MAYFAIR. Located in a bustling mish-mash of labyrinthine streets, this pleasant eatery provides an upscale, almost cosmopolitan, glimpse at Lebanese cuisine. The restaurant ­ whose name comes from a 9th-century palace in Grenada, Spain ­ occupies a historic building and features an elegant decor, highlighted by fresh-cut flowers and greenery. Of course, the cuisine is nothing short of unforgettable, thanks to traditional dishes like falafel, houmous and famous homemade bread. Al fresco seating is available during warmer seasons. TUBE: Green Park

MAYFAIR. Featuring dishes such as baked ground meat with crushed wheat, stuffed with minced meat, pine nuts and onions, seabass in a spicy sauce, and maloukhia with rice and chicken, this cozy corner eatery in Shepherd Market has garnered quite a loyal following. Shoppers in particular laud Al Sultan for both its strategic position between Park Lane and Bond Street and its healthy fare and friendly service. The restaurant's subtle decor ensures that the focus is on the food, and you'll want to save room for dessert, because the Lebanese coffee and homemade pastries are not to be missed. TUBE: Green Park

BAYSWATER. Folks who stray into Bayswater heap high praise on this eatery, where Iranian-inspired dishes and a comfortable dining room attract expats from all over the city. Tandoor-baked breads beckon to hungry passersby, and traditional dishes like hummus, gyros, and char-grilled aubergines ensure that no appetite goes unsated. Additional specialties, like marinated-then-grilled sea bass seasoned with saffron, offer a more exotic brush with authentic Persian fare. TUBE: Bayswater or Queensway

MARYLEBONE. Named after the beloved Lebanese entertainer, this upscale Middle Eastern restaurant offers Marylebone denizens the chance to dine amid earthy yellow walls, original artwork, and heavy wooden tables. Menu highlights include lahem mishwi (grilled lamb skewers), baked aubergine with tomatoes and peppers on rice, and tabouleh. TUBE: Baker Street or Bond Street

KNIGHTSBRIDGE. Offering a taste of Arabia in Knightsbridge, Ishbilia is a particular favorite with area business people, who impress clients with the friendly setting, good service, and delicious food. Daily specials include molukhieh (a stew of molukhieh leaves, chicken or lamb, coriander, and garlic served on a bed of rice), bamia (okra, meat, fresh garlic, and coriander in tomato sauce), and sheikh mehshi (baby aubergine stuffed with lamb, pine nuts, and peppers). On weekends, Ishbilia features belly dancing and live music. TUBE: Knightsbridge